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World Cup 2018: Reaction to WhoScored best XI

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

SOCHI, RUSSIA - June 15: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Spain at Fisht Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
SOCHI, RUSSIA - June 15: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal looks on during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group B match between Portugal and Spain at Fisht Stadium on June 15, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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Which players are unlucky to be missing?

With a first round score of 8.63 on WhoScored, Belgium‘s Romelu Lukaku is unfortunate to not be included. He managed two goals, confirming a man-of-the-match award versus Panama.

Denis Cheryshev was extremely impressive as a goalscoring substitute in Russia’s romp of Saudi Arabia. Scoring twice and producing a marvellous piece of skill before his first. Not playing 90 minutes is an indication of his omission.

Japanese attacking midfielder Yuya Osako performed exceptionally well in their defeat of Colombia. One goal, five shots, as well as 5 aerial duels won. It is no wonder he was also man-of-the-match.

Best pre-tournament XI at World Cup 2018

In Goal, I select David De Gea of Spain and Manchester United. Yes, he made a big error during the first game. However, that was a rare mistake, I cannot remember any for United last season. I still consider him the best worldwide.

My defence begins with Marcelo of Brazil and Real Madrid. Tough tacking and defending, along with excellent attacking link up play are attributes. In addition to goalscoring ability.

On the other side, German fullback Joshua Kimmich. Bayern’s defender is consistent and equally formidable at both ends.

At centre-back: a partnership of Diego Godin and Sergio Ramos. Godin is the third highest La Liga rated defender on WhoScored in the previous campaign. Atletico Madrid’s captain is a born leader. Scoring important goals while preventing them at his end.

Real’s captain and leader’s record speaks for itself. Some criticise his methods, yet he usually gets the job done with class!

First of all in midfield, is winger Antoine Griezmann. Another Atletico man, who is remaining there. That is despite an on-off saga, which he devised. A stunningly stylish footballer though.

N’golo Kante and Luka Modric shall provide ball retention/retrieval, thought, and key play in central midfielder. And Mohamed Salah completes this section on the right-wing. A man who may break the inevitable Messi-Ronaldo dominance.

My forwards are also alarmingly frightening: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Real Madrid’s man is supported by his Barcelona rival, right behind him. The world’s foremost players had to fit in somewhere, out of position or not.

Next: Major news from England's base

Please tell us your best XI in the comment section. We gave our best XI here!

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